The Western Bulldogs have secured a commanding 33-point win over reigning VFLW premiers Port Melbourne on Friday night at ETU Stadium.
Where slippery and muddy conditions set the scene for a gritty and fierce battle, it was the Bulldogs who dominated in the 7.6 (48) to 2.3 (15) victory.
The Dogs set the tone early in the first quarter, with Ellie Blackburn and Jamie Tabb each scoring a goal within two minutes of each other to establish an early 11-point lead.
The second quarter saw Blackburn shine once again, adding her second goal of the game with her experience on full display.
Meanwhile, Port Melbourne found it difficult to penetrate the Bulldogs' defence and unable to add to their opening-quarter score.
A momentum shift in the third quarter saw the Borough hold the Bulldogs scoreless, but the visitors found their feet once again in the final term.
Three consecutive goals from Analea McKee, Keeley Hardingham and Emmalyn Nekrep secured the victory for the Bulldogs, while Port Melbourne failed to add any further score.
FULL TIME | 3 consecutive wins and a a commanding 33-point victory over the reigning premiers 🥳
— WesternBulldogs AFLW (@BulldogsW) May 10, 2024
WBD: 7. 6. 48
POR: 2. 3. 15
Disposals: Carbone 19, Tabb 17, Blackburn 16 and Smith 15
Goals: McKee 2, Blackburn 2, Tabb, Nekrep and Hardingham pic.twitter.com/Le9ZD2aBxx
Dom Carbone was a standout for the Bulldogs, tallying a game-high 19 disposals, seven tackles and six clearances, while Jaimi Tabb impressed with 17 disposals, nine tackles and a goal.
Blackburn finished with 16 touches, six tackles and seven clearances, while Jasmyn Smith (15 touches, eight tackles) enjoyed a birthday win.
Birthday win for Jasmyn Smith!! 🥳🕺🪩 pic.twitter.com/gywDJZT7DM
— WesternBulldogs AFLW (@BulldogsW) May 10, 2024
With a third consecutive win under their belt, the Western Bulldogs will aim to extend their winning streak when they face Collingwood next Saturday afternoon at Victoria Park.
MATCH DETAILS
PORT MELBOURNE: 1.1 1.1 2.3 2.3 (15)
WESTERN BULLDOGS: 2.0 4.3 4.3 7.6 (48)
Goals: McKee 2, Blackburn 2, Tabb, Nekrep, Hardingham.